19th August 2025 / By Peter Omopo
The global footballers’ union, FIFPRO, has called on Indian football authorities to urgently revive the country’s top-tier competition, the Indian Super League (ISL), warning that prolonged uncertainty is jeopardising the livelihoods of thousands of players and staff.
The ISL, typically played between September and April, faces an uncertain future as the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has yet to finalise a revival plan. The rights agreement between the AIFF and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), which runs the league, is set to expire on December 8 and has not been renewed.
In a statement on Tuesday, FIFPRO Asia/Oceania expressed “deep concern” over the situation, describing it as having a “significant impact” on players’ careers, well-being, and financial security.
“Players have been subjected to unilateral and unlawful suspensions of their employment contracts until further notice,” the union said, urging the AIFF, FSDL, and club owners to confirm the new ISL season schedule and provide a clear roadmap.
Talks to extend the 2010 rights agreement collapsed after India’s Supreme Court directed the AIFF to delay the deal due to an ongoing case over a new federation constitution. The impasse has left over 5,000 players, coaches, and staff in limbo.
The crisis has already taken its toll. Top club Mohun Bagan refused to release players for India’s training camp ahead of the upcoming CAFA Nations Cup, accusing the AIFF of “negligence” towards player welfare. Meanwhile, three ISL clubs—including former champions Bengaluru FC—have halted salary payments to players and staff, citing uncertainty over the league’s future.
The Football Players’ Association of India has joined FIFPRO in escalating the issue to FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
The instability comes as Indian football struggles on the international stage. Earlier this month, Khalid Jamil was appointed coach of the men’s national team, which has dropped to 133rd in the FIFA rankings—its lowest position in nearly a decade.
